AT&T has recently reached a significant class action settlement following two major data breaches that affected its customers in 2024. This settlement has led to a total payout of $177 million, available to those who file claims before the impending deadline. If you’re an AT&T customer concerned about your data privacy, it’s essential to be informed about your eligibility and the claims process.
Overview of the Class Action Lawsuit
In 2024, AT&T was embroiled in a class action lawsuit stemming from two distinct data breach incidents. The first breach occurred on March 30, 2024, when sensitive customer information—including addresses, Social Security numbers, birth dates, passcodes, billing numbers, and phone numbers—was released on the dark web. The second breach took place on July 12, 2024, where limited data was illegally downloaded, encompassing details of customers and their interactions.
These incidents raised serious concerns regarding AT&T’s data protection measures, leading to the lawsuit and subsequent settlement agreement.
Who is Eligible for the AT&T Settlement?
Eligibility for this settlement is primarily restricted to customers whose data was compromised in the breaches. If you have been affected by either incident, you can file a claim. To verify your eligibility, visit the designated claims website, where you will be prompted to submit a Class Member ID, email address, AT&T account number, or your full name.
For those who didn’t receive a confirmation code and notice ID, you can contact the Kroll Settlement Administration at 833-890-4930 for information on your claim status.
Filing a Claim: Step-by-Step
To file a claim, simply follow these straightforward steps:
- Visit the Settlement Website: Go to the official claim submission site.
- Submit Your Claims: Click on "submit claim" and enter the requested information, such as your Class Member ID, email, AT&T account number, or your name. This step will help confirm your eligibility.
- Provide Additional Documentation: Depending on your situation, you might need to submit further documents to substantiate your claim.
- Deadline: Ensure that your claim is filed by November 18, 2025. Claims can be submitted online or mailed; just ensure they are postmarked by the deadline.
Potential Payout Amounts
The settlement outlines specific payout tiers based on the severity of the breaches and the documentation provided as part of your claim:
- Total Payout: Affected individuals could receive up to $7,500 if they were impacted by both incidents.
March 2024 Breach:
- Tier 1 Cash Payment: Customers whose Social Security numbers were compromised can claim five times the amount of a Tier 2 Cash Payment.
- Tier 2 Cash Payment: Customers with other sensitive data leaked (but not their SSN) can claim a Tier 2 payment.
- July 2024 Breach: Affected customers may be eligible for a Tier 3 Cash Payment, which is a prorated share of the remaining funds allocated for the July incident.
It’s important to note that the exact amount available for claims will depend on various factors, including settlement administration costs and the total number of valid claims submitted.
Protecting Your Information
Given the nature of the data breaches, it’s essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your sensitive information. Here are some recommendations:
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements and credit reports for any unauthorized activity.
- Change Passwords: Update passwords for your AT&T account and any associated accounts, using strong, unique combinations.
- Consider Credit Monitoring: Invest in credit monitoring services to keep tabs on your credit report.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on communications from AT&T and other institutions for updates regarding your data.
Final Thoughts
The AT&T class action settlement represents an important step toward consumer protection in the realm of data security. For affected customers, filing a claim before the deadline is crucial to receive potential compensation for the hardships faced due to these breaches. The process is relatively simple, and the payouts could provide significant financial relief.
If you have further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Kroll Settlement Administration or consult legal resources for guidance. Staying informed equips you better to protect your personal information in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
